U.S. senator from North Carolina since 1999 and former trial attorney, frequently spoke of two Americas—one for the privileged and one for those left behind by the Bush administration—during his bid for the Democratic presidential nomination. As the other candidates attacked one another, Edwards remained positive and reserved his venom for the policies of the Bush administration. He dropped out of the race in March. Kerry selected Edwards as his running mate in July 2004, hoping Edwards's youthful charm and charisma would appeal to voters.